Recently, I caught up with the Evans Family for a session in Uptown, Mt. Lebanon, and it was a joy to see how much the kids have grown. Between the laughter and the exploration of this beautiful neighborhood, the session felt just right.
Beyond the family updates, this session came with a side of local culinary expertise! As we wandered past the brick porches and tree-lined streets, this dad shared his top picks for the best pizza in Pittsburgh. We bonded over the local legend that is Beto’s Pizza—famous for their cold, shredded provolone topping. I haven’t made it there yet, but after hearing his rave reviews, I’m planning my first visit to experience that famous hot-cold contrast for myself! He also pointed me toward Carbonara’s Ristorante, and I can confirm it absolutely lives up to the hype—the margarita pizza was incredible.
The inspiration for our shoot was to capture a “classic Pittsburgh” feel by trading postcard-perfect skylines and yellow bridges for the intimate, textural details yinzers recognize as home. We skipped the major landmarks to find beauty in the weathered bricks. Mt. Lebanon’s timeless architecture provided an authentic backdrop that let the family take center stage in a way that feels quietly, but truly, Pittsburgh.
Below, the family shares more about their favorite Pittsburgh spots and what this season of life means to them.
your family
Can you share a bit about your family and what makes you who you are?
We’re a family of six, plus a cat and a dog. We’ve been in the same area of Pittsburgh for over 18 years. With four kids, animals, friends and busy schedules, there is a steady stream of chaos in our house.
What does “family time” look like for you?
We travel quite a bit, but we usually do so with friends and extended family. So family time just the six of us usually means we finally found a moment when we’re all at home and just hanging out in the kitchen or living room. It usually involves lots of joking and teasing each other.
What do you love most about raising your family in Pittsburgh?
We love our township and how it’s a family-focused area where we can feel safe and have lots of great neighbors.
Where around Pittsburgh do you love spending time together as a family?
We enjoy going to some of the local restaurants, especially the smaller, family-owned ones.
your family session
What made you choose a natural, lifestyle approach?
I wanted to try and catch more natural pictures of our family. I didn’t want a very serious picture of us because that’s not what we are.
How did you prepare for your session?
Honestly….. we didn’t prepare as much as I would have liked. We were so busy leading up to the photoshoot. I tried to pick out some neutral clothes for everyone, but I didn’t buy anything new. I wanted something they already wear all the time because it was more of a natural and comfortable look for us.
Were there any funny or memorable moments with the kids during the session?
With them being ages 12-20 now, there is constant sibling rivalry and bickering. So having the four of them hold hands while looking at each other during the pictures was very funny, at least to me.
What stood out to you about your experience with Laura Mares Photography?
It was very easy to just be natural during the shoot and not feel awkward.
your family photos
How did it feel seeing your family’s laughter, hugs, and personalities come through in the final images?
I love how they turned out, exactly what I wanted to capture.
What’s one thing you hope your children remember about this season of life when they look back on these photos?
Despite the chaos and busyness of our family life, we still had fun and were never lonely.
What’s your favorite image from the session?
The six of us on the steps in Mt. Lebanon. That specific area is something that my husband and I have lots of memories of, going back decades. I like the backdrop of the street and area because it’s been the same since I came to Pittsburgh as a teenager.
Let's tell your story!
Every family has a story worth telling—whether it’s on your own brick porch or wandering your favorite tree-lined streets. If you’re ready to document this season of your life in a natural, lifestyle way, I would love to chat. Let’s capture the genuine laughter and authentic moments that your family will treasure for years to come.
